West Ham boss slams critics over tactics

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has hit back at critics who questioned his tactics against Chelsea in midweek, as reported in the Evening Standard.

The Hammers held title chasing Chelsea to a goalless draw despite the Blues having more than 30 shots compared to West Ham’s one.

Jose Mourinho criticised Allardyce after the game for not trying to win the match but Allardyce has now hit back with a smile after picking up a vital point.

Big Sam knows that his team are unlikely to have to defend as much today against Swansea as they did on Wednesday and that he was proud of the performance despite the critics.

“People need to get real and sometimes listen to the reasons rather than peddle the ill-informed negativity.

“We know we’re still in trouble and need to work hard but the truth is that injuries have been 95 per cent of our problems.

“I would also like to recall the merciless stick we took after the two cup defeats against Manchester City. Just look at their two Premier League results against Tottenham, who have spent £110million — 11-1 in two games!

“I don’t expect us to have to defend as long and as often as we did against Chelsea but that means our defenders have to be tactical and solid.”